Being in an emergency room can create anxiety in anyone, but what if you’re just a child? Imagine being young, not sure what’s going on and you’re sick, hurt, scared or worried about a loved one. That image is just what inspired a group of Farmington Hills-area high school students to take action.

Wanting to do something to ease children’s anxiety at Botsford Hospital, the Farmington United Junior Optimist Club donated brand new Beanie Babies wrapped in Magic Hugs Squares. The tag on the Magic Hugs Square reads: “This magic blanket was made especially for you. It is made out of hugs. When you are sad or mad or scared or bored, hold this square close to you and it will give you the comfort of a million hugs. It will love you no matter what!”

And the lovable plush toys just might work. EMTs in Missouri have been handing out stuffed animals for years and have found that they actually do calm children and lessen fears.

Giving back to the community has already started to pay off for Junior Optimists Morgan Webb and Dana Iles. While they were here making their special delivery, the Harrison High School students were treated to a tour of Botsford Trauma and Emergency Center by medical director Dr. Sanford Vieder. They had a great learning experience and Dr. Vieder even gave them sage advice on becoming a doctor. As it turns out Dr. Vieder is a Harrison High grad himself, so they’re already on their way!

The Farmington United Junior Optimist Club is comprised of high school students from Harrison, Farmington and North Farmington High Schools. They are one of the many Junior Optimist clubs in our area sponsored by the Farmington/Farmington Hills Breakfast Optimist Club. For more information about Junior Optimists clubs go to their website at www.f2hjunioroptimists.org.